New Model Army – Glass meets Kasumi

How did you become a model?I was scouted by a modelling agency when I was in fashion college in Tokyo.

Have you always wanted to be a model?I started to work as an admin assistant in my home town after graduating from high school. However, I love fashion and I wanted to study styling. I went to a respected fashion college in Tokyo and had the opportunity to be a model for a well-known Japanese fashion magazine. It was pretty fun and I thought it could be a rewarding job.

Who are your heroes in life and modelling?My modelling heroes are Japanese models who are activists for the world and my real life hero is my husband.

Kasumi. Photograph: Camilla Glorioso

What is your present state of mind?I always try to keep a happy mind.

What is your idea of happiness?Beautiful weather and a picnic with my friends in a quiet park.

How would you like to be perceived by others?I want to be perceived as optimistic and want to have positive effect on people.

If you were not a model, what would you be?I’m very interested in fashion so would probably work within the industry.

Kasumi. Photograph: Camilla Glorioso

What was the best advice you’ve ever been given? And who gave it to you?My mother always used to give me advice about keeping happy and optimistic.

What do you miss most when you’re travelling?Japanese food! I love onigiri (rice bowl).

What is your favourite song or songs to walk to?1970s and ‘80s Japanese pop, British music like The Smiths, Blur, Oasis and The Beatles.

Kasumi. Photograph: Camilla Glorioso

What would you say is the biggest myth or misperception about being a model?It’s not all glamorous. But everyone from my hometown is happy to see me working as a model.

What is your opinion on the fashion and modelling industries?I’ve worked with so many nice photographers, models and cool brands that I find it exciting to see emerging brands and talent making the industry more interesting. I think social media is a big pioneer in this and I can’t wait to see how technology will integrate with the industry in the future.